Afrobeat meets reggae: Kuti and Marley unite in historic single, DEY

LAGOS, Nigeria – Grammy-nominated Nigerian musician Seun Kuti has set the music scene ablaze with the release of his electrifying new single, ‘Dey,’ featuring reggae icon and four-time Grammy Award winner Damian Marley.

This much-anticipated collaboration combines the raw energy of Afrobeat with the rhythmic vibes of reggae, creating a bridge between Nigeria and Jamaica that will captivate audiences worldwide. ‘Dey’ is the first single from his upcoming album with Egypt 80, ‘Heavier Yet (Lays The Crownless Head),’ slated for release on October 4th and is available on all streaming platform today.

Seun Kuti expressed his deep sentiment about ‘Dey,’ emphasising its special significance. He views this collaboration as a historic moment for African unity, art, and brotherhood, marking the first time a Kuti and a Marley have been on a record together.

“The song depicts African unity and African art,” Seun says. “We are two performers, both from the dynasty of Africa, with a huge continental divide, singing about similar struggles. It doesn’t matter where we are positioned in this world; very few African people receive notability; we are, for the most part, seen as the underdog. Therefore, this song is all about embracing and championing who we are, regardless.”

Produced by a collaborative dream team that includes superstar Lenny Kravitz as executive producer and Fela Kuti and Egypt 80’s original producer Sodi Marciszewer as artistic producer, ‘Dey’ delivers a timeless fusion of sounds. The track pays homage to the rich musical traditions of both Nigeria and Jamaica while pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. With its pulsating rhythms and infectious melodies, ‘Dey’ is set to become a timeless anthem that transcends borders and resonates with listeners from all walks of life.

Seun Kuti and Damian Marley’s collaboration is a celebration of cultural fusion and musical innovation, showcasing the rich tapestry of sounds that define contemporary African and Caribbean music.

“Dey” is available today June 26th on all major streaming platforms